Zambia grants bursaries to advance digital agenda

By Arnold Mulenga, Zambia Contributor
Johannesburg, 29 Jan 2026
Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Technology and Science.
Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Technology and Science.

Zambia has granted over 13,600 bursaries to students in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TEVET) this year as part of its efforts to foster digital transformation.

Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Technology and Science, said the 2026 TEVET award bursaries will focus on sectors crucial to national development, such as engineering, ICT and digital skills, agriculture, health sciences, and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Habeenzu pointed out that special efforts have been made to increase access for female applicants in STEM fields, learners from rural districts, and students with disabilities, while the online bursary application system ensures a transparent selection process.

“By equipping young people with practical skills, we are empowering communities, boosting employability, and building a stronger workforce for Zambia,” he said.

“The bursaries had been distributed equitably across the country, regardless of geographical location or background.”

He added that beneficiaries come from all provinces, underscoring government’s commitment to equitable access to skills training.

Speaking when he addressed journalists in Lusaka yesterday, Habeenzu said this reflects government’s desire to expand access to technical and entrepreneurship training.

He said the 2026 number marks a significant rise from last year, when 8,053 bursaries were awarded.

This year’s cohort includes 7,306 males and 6,379 females, reflecting progress toward gender inclusion in technical education.

Share

Read more
ITWeb proudly displays the “FAIR” stamp of the Press Council of South Africa, indicating our commitment to adhere to the Code of Ethics for Print and online media which prescribes that our reportage is truthful, accurate and fair. Should you wish to lodge a complaint about our news coverage, please lodge a complaint on the Press Council’s website, www.presscouncil.org.za or email the complaint to enquiries@ombudsman.org.za. Contact the Press Council on 011 484 3612.
Copyright @ 1996 - 2026 ITWeb Limited. All rights reserved.